Name: Creamy Boursin Pasta in 30 Minutes for Easy Comfort Cooking
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Large Argentinian shrimp (Peeled and patted dry); 2 tablespoons Lemon juice (Adds brightness); 2 tablespoons Olive oil (For marinating); 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (For spiciness); 1 teaspoon Garlic powder (Enhances flavor); 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika (Can be omitted); 1 teaspoon Dried oregano (Fresh oregano can be used); 8 ounces Penne pasta (Can be gluten-free); 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter (For sautéing); 1 medium Yellow onion (Finely chopped); 1 cup Heavy cream (Creates a velvety sauce); 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour (slurry) (For thickening); 8 ounces Boursin cheese (Star ingredient); 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley (For garnish); to taste Salt & pepper (For seasoning); 1/4 cup Freshly grated Parmesan (Optional garnish)

As I stirred the pot, a comforting aroma filled the kitchen, instantly transporting me to my favorite Italian restaurant. Today, we’re diving into the creamy delight that is the Quick and Creamy Boursin Shrimp Pasta—a one-pot wonder that’s ready in under 30 minutes! With succulent Cajun-spiced shrimp enveloped in a rich, velvety Boursin cheese sauce, this dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when cooking feels like a chore. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal right at home. Intrigued? Stick around, because this creamy pasta dish is just the flavorful escape you need!

Why is Boursin Pasta a Must-Try?

Quick Preparation: This one-pot dish can be on your table in under 30 minutes, perfect for hectic weeknights.

Bold Flavor: The Cajun-spiced shrimp pairs beautifully with the creamy Boursin cheese, creating a rich sauce that will satisfy your taste buds.

Minimal Cleanup: Because it’s all made in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you more time to enjoy your meal.

Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition and color, or substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for variety.

Crowd-Pleaser: This creamy Boursin Shrimp Pasta is sure to impress family and friends, making it a go-to for gatherings or cozy dinners alike!

For more delicious pasta ideas, check out our Butternut Squash Pasta or Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta.

Boursin Pasta Ingredients

For the Shrimp
• Large Argentinian shrimp – Ensure they are peeled and patted dry for best texture.
• Lemon juice – Adds brightness and acidity to balance the richness of the cream and cheese.
• Olive oil – For marinating shrimp and sautéing; substitute with avocado oil if desired.
• Cajun seasoning – Provides a spicy, bold flavor that complements the creamy Boursin pasta.
• Garlic powder – Enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• Smoked paprika – Adds depth and a subtle smokiness; can be omitted for a more straightforward flavor.
• Dried oregano – Complements the other spices perfectly; fresh oregano can be used as a substitute.

For the Pasta and Sauce
• Penne pasta – Provides structure and holds the sauce well; can be swapped for gluten-free pasta if needed.
• Unsalted butter – Used for sautéing the onion; provides richness.
• Yellow onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• Heavy cream – Creates the velvety sauce; can be substituted with half-and-half for a lighter version.
• All-purpose flour (slurry) – Used to thicken the sauce; can be replaced with cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
• Boursin cheese – The star ingredient; offers a creamy, herby flavor. Cream cheese or goat cheese can be substitutes, with added garlic and herbs for flavor matching.

Finishing Touches
• Fresh parsley – Adds freshness and color; can be replaced with basil or omitted if needed.
• Salt & pepper – For seasoning the dish.
• Freshly grated Parmesan – Optional, for garnishing the dish.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Boursin Pasta

Step 1: Marinate Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, combine peeled large Argentinian shrimp with fresh lemon juice, olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Toss well to ensure all shrimp are coated in this flavorful marinade. Allow to marinate for about 10 minutes while you gather your other ingredients, letting the spices really soak in.

Step 2: Cook Shrimp
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Sauté for 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside, leaving any residual oil and spices in the pan for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Build Sauce
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped yellow onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. Slowly pour in heavy cream, stirring continuously, and then gradually mix in a slurry made of all-purpose flour to thicken the sauce, cooking for another minute until smooth.

Step 4: Add Shrimp & Cheese
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir until they are heated through. Add crumbled Boursin cheese and fresh parsley, stirring gently for about 5 minutes until the cheese melts completely and creates a velvety sauce that clings to the shrimp. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Cook Pasta
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add penne pasta and cook until just al dente according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta, then rinse lightly with cool water to stop the cooking process.

Step 6: Combine & Serve
Add the drained penne pasta directly to the skillet with the creamy Boursin shrimp sauce. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve your desired sauciness. Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, extra parsley, and a sprinkle of black pepper for added flavor.

Storage Tips for Boursin Pasta

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the pasta is completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezer: Boursin pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place in freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion, and label with the date.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess.

What to Serve with Creamy Boursin Shrimp Pasta?

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this luscious pasta with complementary dishes that enhance its creamy allure.

Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread adds a crunchy contrast to the soft pasta, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with tangy vinaigrette offers a light, refreshing balance against the rich Boursin sauce, enhancing your meal’s overall flavor profile.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender roasted asparagus with a sprinkle of lemon zest provides an earthy taste and added nutrition, perfectly complementing the shrimp’s spiced flavor.
Sautéed Spinach: Simple sautéed spinach tossed with garlic not only brightens up your plate but also contributes a vibrant color and a nutritious boost.
White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc brings out the flavors of the shrimp and cream while providing a crisp, refreshing finish.
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light lemon sorbet refreshes the palate after the richness of the pasta, leaving a pleasant and zesty conclusion to the meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Boursin Shrimp Pasta ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the shrimp with lemon juice, olive oil, and Cajun seasoning up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, you can sauté the onions and prepare the sauce up to 3 days ahead—simply let it cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container to maintain quality. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently over low heat, add cooked shrimp, and follow up by tossing it with your freshly cooked pasta. This way, you’ll have a delicious, stress-free dinner that feels just as indulgent as if you prepared everything from scratch!

Boursin Pasta Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this creamy dish your own by mixing in some of these delightful twists and swaps!

Vegetable Boost: Add fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for nutritional value and vibrant color. They’ll brighten the dish and provide extra texture.
Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different taste experience. Chicken will add heartiness, while tofu brings a wonderful plant-based twist.
Pasta Shape: Experiment with different pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle. Each pasta holds the sauce differently, providing unique bites!
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute traditional Boursin cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese or cashew cheese for a vegan delight. Just spice it up with herbs to mimic the original flavor!
Gluten-Free Alternative: Swap regular penne with gluten-free pasta made from lentils or chickpeas to cater to gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor!
Flavor Boosters: For extra zing, incorporate a splash of white wine or lemon zest into the sauce. These additions will elevate the freshness of the dish.
Spice It Up: Increase the heat level by adding cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. If you’d like a milder take, reduce the Cajun seasoning quantity.

For more delightful ideas, don’t miss our easy-to-make 4-Ingredient Chocolate Oat Cookies or dive into the creamy goodness of Creamy Lemon Feta Pasta. Happy cooking!

Expert Tips for Boursin Pasta

Perfect Shrimp Texture: Avoid overcooking the shrimp—cook them just until pink and opaque for a tender bite.
Thinning Sauce: If your sauce thickens too much while mixing, add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
Creamy Leftovers: When reheating any leftover Boursin pasta, add a bit of extra cream or water to prevent separation and keep it creamy.
Vegetable Additions: Consider adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrition and vibrant color, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
Flavor Balance: If using a milder Cajun seasoning, adjust the quantity to your taste for that perfect spicy kick, complementing the creamy Boursin sauce.

Boursin Pasta Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, choose large Argentinian shrimp that are fresh, bright in color, and ideally wild-caught. Make sure they are peeled and patted dry before marinating to achieve the perfect sear.

What’s the best way to store leftover Boursin pasta?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the pasta to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.

Can I freeze Boursin pasta?
Yes! Boursin pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months. Transfer the cooled pasta to a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion. Label it with the date for your reference, and remember to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

What if my sauce becomes too thick when combining with the pasta?
Very! If your sauce turns out thicker than you like, simply add a splash of the reserved pasta water while tossing the noodles, until you reach your desired consistency. This not only thins out the sauce but also helps it cling to the pasta perfectly.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
It’s important to note that this dish contains shellfish and dairy, so if you have allergies, you may want to substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu and opt for dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream or dairy-free cheese. Always read labels to ensure safety for all dietary needs.